What's happened
Following the election of Cardinal Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV, LGBTQ+ advocates express cautious optimism despite his past comments on homosexuality. The new pope's approach to inclusivity remains uncertain as he inherits a complex legacy from Pope Francis.
What's behind the headline?
Key Considerations
- Historical Context: Prevost's past comments, particularly a 2012 speech criticizing the portrayal of same-sex families in media, have left many LGBTQ+ advocates apprehensive.
- Potential for Change: Advocates like Francis DeBernardo from New Ways Ministry emphasize the need for a 'wait and see' approach, hoping that Prevost's views may have evolved over the past 13 years.
- Papal Legacy: Pope Francis made strides towards inclusivity, yet the core doctrines regarding LGBTQ+ issues remain unchanged. The new pope's stance could either build on this legacy or revert to more traditional views.
- Community Response: Figures like Rev. James Martin express cautious optimism, highlighting Prevost's humility and experience, which may foster a more welcoming church environment.
- Future Implications: The Catholic Church stands at a crossroads, with the potential for a more inclusive approach under Leo XIV, but the path forward remains uncertain as he balances tradition with calls for progress.
What the papers say
According to the New York Times, advocates for LGBTQ+ inclusion are cautiously optimistic about Pope Leo XIV, with Francis DeBernardo stating, "We are sitting here Googling everything we can about the new pope." Meanwhile, the AP News reported on Prevost's past remarks, noting that he criticized the portrayal of same-sex families in media, which has raised concerns among LGBTQ+ advocates. The Independent highlighted that while Prevost acknowledges the need for inclusivity, he also emphasized that church doctrine has not changed. Rev. James Martin described Prevost as a "humble, reserved, straightforward, trustworthy" individual, suggesting that his leadership could be beneficial for LGBTQ+ Catholics. Overall, the coverage reflects a mix of hope and apprehension regarding the new pope's potential impact on LGBTQ+ issues within the church.
How we got here
Cardinal Robert Prevost was elected as Pope Leo XIV on May 8, 2025, succeeding Pope Francis. His past remarks on LGBTQ+ issues have raised concerns among advocates for inclusion within the Catholic Church.
Go deeper
- What are Pope Leo XIV's past comments on LGBTQ+ issues?
- How did Pope Francis influence LGBTQ+ acceptance in the church?
- What do LGBTQ+ advocates hope for under the new pope?
Common question
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What is Pope Leo XIV's stance on LGBTQ+ issues?
With the election of Cardinal Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV, many are curious about his views on LGBTQ+ issues and how they might shape the future of the Catholic Church. Advocates for LGBTQ+ inclusion are cautiously optimistic, but concerns linger due to his past comments. Here are some key questions and answers regarding his stance and potential impact.
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Pope Francis is the head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City State. Francis is the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Americas, the first from the Southern Hemisphere, and the first pope from outside Europe since the Syrian Gregory
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